South Africa Gaining Popularity with Asian Migrants
15/05/2008 by Robbie Ragless
South Africa is a country brimming with opportunities for immigrants the world over. With spectacular scenery, diverse cultural experiences and an exuberant energy, it's no wonder South Africa is seeing an increase in the number of Asians opting to settle there.
At present it is estimated there are around1.2 million Asians currently residing in South Africa, representing about two per cent of South Africa's population.
Statistics regarding this gradual rise relate to a welcoming mix of Indian, Chinese and Koreans. The most abundant residents of this group are Indians, with an estimated number of just over a million currently in South Africa.
Reports suggest that South Africa has seen a steady incline in Asian occupancy in the country since around 1994.
Part of this increase has emerged from the migration of Korean's to South Africa; however the South African government appears to be recognising the rise and has begun assisting with the development of facilities in order to attract more Asians in general. At present South Africa already has three weekend schools open, benefiting Korean immigrants around Johannesburg, Pretoria and Cape Town.
Nicholas Geladaris a South African Immigration worker at Global Visas says "South Africa is an increasingly popular destination for migration. The country has a wide range of visas on offer, giving people of all nationalities looking to relocate plenty of options. Migrants can bring a whole host of benefits to a country, therefore it's great news for South Africa"
Historically South Africa has experienced a new wave of immigration since the end of the Apartheid; paralleling the movement of Africans from the Diaspora. In this present climate of global mobility there are only signs to support further increases.
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